Gabrielle O. Alvarez-Tillman - Contributing Reporter
Who is Emilio Santana? He's our next big International Free Agent, coming from Mexico and to what is likely nobody's surprise he stays in Mexico after signing on to become a Staring Frog for the rebuilding Mexico City franchise. He has also become four 4th $20M+ IFA to sign this season, like momma said go big or go home. Given the budgets remaining, I'd expect at least one or two teams to overpay for the next "big" IFA that shows up.
The 21 yr old shouldn't need much seasoning in the minors, though he'll get it to delay his clock. Rumor has it, the commish is looking into a new ruling that requires all players who can legally drink alcohol in the United States must be promoted to the Majors along with a case of beer by their 21st birthday. But then again he's up in Canada so what does he know about the good ole U.S. of A.
Background aside, who exactly is this future reliever/closer? His potential is looking a lot like 5x Fireman of the Year, 2x World Series Champion, Ronnie Andrews with a mix of Enrique Franco. His velocity has potential for much higher than these guys, that could see K/9s in the high 8s or above. Combined with that spot on control, a late innings guy that doesn't give up free passes should get at least 1 K, already limits the game to the final two outs. He'll do pretty well to keep the ball on the ground too. Considering the defensive boost from glove first players coming in late, this guy is going to be tough to hit against. Just last season Andrews had a 1.07 WHIP and 1.88 ERA; good for 145% better than league average. Not just 45% better, but 145% better. Now Santana doesn't quite have the first pitch that Andrews does but his second pitch is much better along with his control and velocity. That should more than make up the difference for his sinker not being quite as good.
Congrats to Mexico City for the big signing and to Augusta who is now the favorite to land the next IFA as long as their scouts don't take a siesta from working deals with Emilio and his mother. $35M+ would be A LOT of money to sit on at the end of the year. Ownership won't be happy if their scouts don't get out there and get their job done! Sneaking up behind Augusta will be Atlanta and Montreal.